Syrian Rebels Capture Hama, Intensifying Pressure on Assad Regime

Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have captured the major city of Hama after the Syrian military withdrew, marking a significant setback for President Bashar al-Assad. The rebels' advance follows their recent capture of Aleppo and comes amid a broader offensive in the region. The military's withdrawal was aimed at preserving civilian lives and avoiding urban combat. The conflict has displaced over 280,000 people and resulted in significant casualties, with international calls for a ceasefire and political resolution intensifying.